Partial ostectomy of the dens to correct atlantoaxial subluxation in a pony.

Summary

# Editorial Summary Atlantoaxial subluxation—misalignment between the atlas and axis vertebrae—is a potentially catastrophic condition affecting the cervical spine. When conservative management fails, surgical intervention becomes necessary, yet the technical approach to achieving stable anatomic realignment has been poorly documented in equine practice. This case report describes the successful management of atlantoaxial subluxation in a four-year-old Welsh pony using a ventral midline approach with partial ostectomy of the dens, after closed reduction under general anaesthesia proved unsuccessful. Following surgery, the pony exhibited complete resolution of clinical signs including neck stiffness and ataxia, with radiographic imaging confirming normal anatomic positioning at both five days and six months post-operatively. The technique offers farriers and veterinary surgeons a viable surgical option for cases refractory to conservative management, with the potential to restore full neurological function and prevent progression to permanent spinal cord damage.

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Key Findings

• •Partial ostectomy of the dens via ventral approach successfully reduced atlantoaxial subluxation in a pony that failed closed reduction.
• •Postoperative recovery was uneventful with complete resolution of neurologic deficits and ataxia.
• •Radiographic confirmation at 6 months showed stable anatomic realignment of the atlantoaxial joint.

Conditions Studied